NEWS DESK: A huge earthquake struck central Turkey and northwest Syria, killing more than 1,400 people while injuring thousands.
The magnitude 7.8 quake, which is the worst to strike Turkey this century, was followed by another large quake, magnitude 7.7.
Rescue operations are underway.
Dear world, today was a very sorrowful day many lives have been lost, families left their homes with tragedies. Please pray with us .#TurkeyEarthquake #syriaearthquake pic.twitter.com/87XopZgw3B
— Bana Alabed (@AlabedBana) February 6, 2023
CONDOLENCES POUR IN:
White House National Security Adviser Jack Sullivan said:
“The U.S. is profoundly concerned by today’s destructive earthquake in Turkiye & Syria. I have been in touch with Turkish officials to relay that we stand ready to provide any & all needed assistance. We will continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with Turkiye.”
The U.S. is profoundly concerned by today’s destructive earthquake in Turkiye & Syria. I have been in touch with Turkish officials to relay that we stand ready to provide any & all needed assistance. We will continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with Turkiye.
— Jake Sullivan (@JakeSullivan46) February 6, 2023
Pakistan also offered condolences and sympathies.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said: “We send our heartfelt condolences & most sincere sympathies to the government and the people of Syria who have suffered major human and material losses from the devastating earthquake early this morning.”
We send our heartfelt condolences & most sincere sympathies to the government and the people of Syria who have suffered major human and material losses from the devastating earthquake early this morning. 🇵🇰 🇸🇾
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) February 6, 2023
Deeply saddened by the news of a massive earthquake that struck southeastern region of Türkiye. I send my profound condolences & most sincere sympathies to my brother President @RTErdogan & brotherly people of Türkiye on the loss of precious lives & damage to infrastructure.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) February 6, 2023